Size and Weight. The size of instrument is 

 worthy of consideration. If an instrument is to remain 

 stationary in a practitioner's office or laboratory, it may 

 be large without being cumbersome. If, however, it is 

 intended to be carried about it should be of the smaller 

 and more contracted pattern. 



WoHdng Space Below Stage. Another im- 

 portant consideration is the space between the stage 

 and base, or table. While it is advisable to have the 

 stage low on account of the convenience in manipulat- 

 ing a slide, there should still be sufficient space for the 

 convenient attachment of substage accessories. In this 

 respect the American instruments are superior as they 

 are built for the better accommodation of accessories. 



Stage. A variety of stages is offered on instru- 

 ments of similar construction. The plain, flat stage, 

 while preferred by some, offers no advantages over the 

 ordinary round one, unless specially made for examining 

 specimens on larger slides than the standard 3 by i 

 inch. Those stages in which the upper surface is 

 covered with vulcanite offer many advantages. The 

 spring clips are usually of similar construction, although 

 varying in detail and curves. Properly constructed 

 clips should have such elasticity as to allow specimens 

 to be brought under them without resistance and keep 

 them properly in pkce, without too much pressure and 

 consequent friction. 



